Reset Ink Cartridge – How to Reuse Any Printer Cartridge (Epson, HP, Canon & More)

🔧 Reset Ink Cartridge – How to Reset Any Printer Cartridge and Reuse It

The reset ink cartridge process is essential for anyone who wants to save money, reduce waste, and extend the life of their printer. Whether you’re using an Epson, HP, Canon, or Brother printer, eventually you’ll face an issue where the printer refuses to recognize a refilled cartridge—or insists it’s empty even when it’s full.

In this article, you’ll learn how to reset an ink cartridge regardless of the brand, how the printer cartridge chip works, and when a chip resetter tool is necessary. We’ll also cover best practices for refilling cartridges and restoring printer functionality.

🧠 Why You Need to Reset Ink Cartridges

Modern printers use smart chips built into the cartridge to track ink levels. When you refill an empty cartridge, the chip still reports “empty” unless you reset the ink cartridge chip. This results in:

• Error messages like “Ink Cartridge Not Recognized”

• Disabled printing functions

• Incorrect ink level readings

By resetting the chip, the printer will “think” it’s dealing with a brand-new cartridge—restoring full functionality.

🔄 How Ink Cartridge Chips Work

Each cartridge contains a small electronic chip that stores information such as:

• Ink level history

• Cartridge model number

• Compatibility data

When you install a new cartridge, the printer reads this chip. If the chip signals the cartridge is empty—or is not recognized (due to refilling or third-party use)—the printer will block usage.

That’s why chip resetting is crucial for refilled or remanufactured cartridges.

🛠️ Methods to Reset Ink Cartridges by Brand

Let’s break down how to reset cartridges for the major printer brands:

🟦 Epson Ink Cartridge Reset

Epson cartridges are notorious for refusing refilled inks due to their chips. To fix this:

Option 1: Use a Chip Resetter Tool

• Buy a chip resetter compatible with your Epson cartridge series (e.g., T0XX, 73N).

• Align the chip on the cartridge with the resetter’s pins.

• Press and hold for 5–10 seconds until the LED blinks or turns green.

• The cartridge is now reset and can be refilled.

Option 2: Use WIC Reset Utility

• This software tool allows firmware-level reset for waste ink counters and chip values.

• Ideal for Epson EcoTank and L-series models.

⚠️ Note: Not all cartridges are resettable—some newer Epson chips are “one-time use only.”

🟥 HP Ink Cartridge Reset

HP cartridges are more difficult to reset because of their dynamic security firmware.

Option 1: Try the « Taping Trick »

• On HP 60, 61, 62, or similar models:

  1. Cover specific chip contacts using tape (check online for your model).

  2. Insert and remove the cartridge in a specific sequence.

  3. This tricks the printer into accepting the refill.

Option 2: Use Original HP Chips

• Buy remanufactured cartridges that reuse genuine HP chips.

• No resetter needed, but ensure the chip is intact.

⚠️ Many newer HP models block non-HP chips completely.

🟥 Canon Ink Cartridge Reset

Canon cartridges often display “low ink” warnings even when refilled.

Option 1: Use a Canon Chip Resetter

• Available for PGI and CLI series cartridges.

• Reset process is similar to Epson: align, press, and wait for the signal light.

Option 2: Manual Reset (for older models)

• Hold the “Stop/Reset” button on the printer for 5–10 seconds after installing the cartridge.

• This bypasses the chip warning.

🟪 Brother Ink Cartridge Reset

Brother printers are generally more flexible, but still use chip detection.

Option 1: Manual Reset (for many models)

• Open the printer’s front panel while holding “Menu”.

• Enter Maintenance Mode by pressing a combination of keys.

• Navigate to the ink reset option and select the cartridge to reset.

Option 2: Replace Chip

• Some compatible cartridges come with a new chip already installed.

🔋 Refill First, Then Reset

Before resetting, always make sure the cartridge is:

• Properly refilled

• Clean and free of ink residue around the chip

• Fully dry before reinsertion

Resetting a cartridge without refilling it can lead to printing errors or head damage.

✅ Advantages of Resetting Ink Cartridges

⚠️ When Resetting Won’t Work

Sometimes, resetting won’t help due to:

• Firmware updates that block third-party cartridges

• Damaged or incompatible chips

• Newer generation printers with one-time chip authentication

In such cases, your best option is to:

• Roll back firmware (if possible)

• Buy pre-chipped refillable cartridges

• Use continuous ink systems (CISS) for supported models

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🔸 Do I need a chip resetter for all cartridges?

Not always. Some printers accept refills without resetting. Others require it strictly.

🔸 Are chip resetters safe?

Yes, if purchased from a reliable seller and used correctly.

🔸 Is it legal to reset ink cartridges?

Yes. Resetting or refilling cartridges for personal use is legal in most countries.

🔸 Will resetting damage the printer?

No, as long as the cartridge is clean, properly refilled, and compatible.